Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

Which condition is characterized by low body temperature?

1. Hyperthermia

2. Normothermia

3. Hypothermia

4. Pyrexia

The correct answer is: Hypothermia

The condition characterized by low body temperature is hypothermia. This occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a core body temperature that drops below the normal range, typically defined as below 95°F (35°C). Hypothermia can result from prolonged exposure to cold environments, excessive wind, or immersion in cold water and can have serious health consequences if not promptly treated. In contrast, hyperthermia refers to abnormally high body temperature, often due to excessive environmental heat, heat stroke, or other factors that cause the body's temperature regulation to fail. Normothermia indicates a normal body temperature, typically around 98.6°F (37°C), representing a healthy state of thermal regulation. Pyrexia, commonly known as fever, involves an elevated body temperature that usually indicates an underlying infection or inflammation.